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Eight-year DB resident Alex May has turned on to leather, creating high-end, one-of-a-kind bags and accessories that oppose fast fashion, beautifully. Elizabeth Kerr checks out Atelier Bouclier Walk into Alex May’s atelier and you’re instantly confronted with the sights and unmistakable scents of leathercraft. The space – a room in his Discovery Bay flat – is floor-toceiling with tools, scraps, glues, buckles, thread, beeswaxes and leather hides from (mostly) Italy and France. Ar tisanal machines and tools from Japan and South Korea stand across from the main workbench, upon which sits a Moleskin notebook with a deep mustard yellow cover that Alex made. Also on the bench is a belt, navy blue on one side, vivid orange on the other. On another sur face are some old boarding passes, which Alex is using to help guide his next project: the “per fect” travel wallet. On a high shelf is a birthday gift for his wife, a large olivegreen tote bag with his signature tassels on each side. It’s elegant, cool and, above all, incredibly well made with 100% saddle stitching (meaning it’s completely hand stitched, like ever ything Alex makes). It’s also one-of-a-kind. To look at him, you wouldn’t take Alex for a designer. By his own admission, he’s more comfor table in button-down shir ts and khakis, and his favourite moccasin-style slip-on shoes than anything formal or flash, but he cer tainly has a gift for accessorising others. As it stands, Alex calls his high-end, ar tisan leather work a hobby, one that sprang from an urge to do something creative in his spare time. A one-time Chinese and foreign policy student, and a lawyer by trade, he moved to China 25 years ago, just as the countr y was emerging on the world stage, and spent 18 years there in corporate law and advisory. Alex has been in Hong Kong for the past eight years, having transitioned from law to a Swiss firm here. DB was his first choice for homebase, and there are no plans to leave. “We’ve been out here for a long time,” he says. “It’s where we live. It’s easy to find quiet. We have the water and it’s just peaceful.” ART FIRST, UTILITY SECOND Alex’s taste for creativity has remained strong despite the demands of his corporate career. A self-described “tinkerer”, he grew up with a workshop at home, and always made things. YouTube didn’t exist, so as a child he hit the library when he wanted to learn a craft. An autodidact, Alex developed an appreciation for beauty along the way and found he wanted to create “a physical manifestation that was meaningful”. “We drafted 70- or 80-page contracts that were beautiful in a legal way, but who’s ever really going to know it?” he says of his law work. Over the years, Alex also tried his hand at painting, but found the endgame unfulfilling. “I like the idea of combining art and utility: that’s what appeals about my leatherwork,” he says. “For me, it’s art first, utility second. and you could just use a plastic shopping bag to carry things around.” The accessorising emerged as a bit of a fluke after a friend left him several leather hides when he relocated to the UK. Alex hit the proverbial books again and started making accessories with a few tools on his dining room table. But a funny thing happened: he got really good at it. His earliest “clients” were his wife (a former banker) and daughter, but friends who saw their bags, belts and other accessories started asking where they bought them. Alex proceeded to develop a name for his studio: Atelier Bouclier . Everything he makes is to his own designs and patterns, clients get to choose the colour and size. “I get orders every now and then, not enough for it to be called a business,” he cracks. “The people who order stuff from me are those who want something that’s really nice, very high quality, but isn’t ubiquitous. Some people only want status symbols; they want brands. Some people want something that you can’t get anywhere else; something that is both beautiful and truly high quality.” One-of-a-kind and high-end, Alex’s creations definitely come down on the “pay for quality, once” side of the equation, and that pushback serves his work well. “I make things to outlast the wearer/ user, which may be a bit old fashioned, but this approach is also the counterpoint to fast fashion and ubiquitous mass luxury,” he says. “Sustainability is trending worldwide, and I strongly believe that people should buy less and buy better. Buy the best, buy less of it and enjoy it more.” TIMELESS AND MADE TO ENDURE A brief lesson in saddle stitching and edge finishing demonstrates why Alex’s bags won’t come apart in a season. He starts by cutting two lengths of leather, adhering them to each other, trimming the edges to ensure they’re flush, punching guide holes for thread, saddle stitching – one stitch at a time – creating an edge parabola for a smooth line, burnishing and sanding, and polishing with beeswax. He fiddles with the edges a few times, shaving off the uneven sides. Alex can spend up to 80 hours on one item like a bag, and it shows. The navy-blue belt on the workbench is perfect. Accessories are a broad category, which begs the question: is Alex planning to branch out? Will there be Atelier Bouclier shoes, gloves or luggage to go with glasses cases, belts and handbags any time soon? “I’ve been playing with the idea of a suitcase, but that’s a really big project,” he says. “In this era of strict baggage allowances, people are drawn to lightweight suitcases – old-school aluminium or leather suitcases can get heavy. If I lived someplace where people drove on weekend trips? Yeah, then I would do something like that. “Ultimately, design is about finding a solution for a problem,” Alex adds “I find I carry an umbrella a lot in Hong Kong. When it’s not raining, I’d love to be hands-free, so I’m designing something beautiful in leather to do the job.” Which leads us back to that “perfect” travel wallet: Alex’s idea is for one item for a phone, currencies, SIM cards, credit cards and a passport. “The worst is when you go through security, and you’re trying to find all that stuff in all these pockets and it takes forever. It holds everyone up, or worse you lose things or leave them behind. With this you’d take it out and be done,” he says. “But it’s just an idea.” Ideas are clearly something Alex has in spades – his mind is full of “designs for various different kinds of bag and other useful items that are both unusual and unique”. So how does he decide what makes it off the drawing board and into the Atelier Bouclier collection? “It’s just a matter of deciding when the design is good enough, beautiful enough to justify making a prototype, and then constructing it in the best quality leather,” he finishes. Easy, right?

DMR www.dmr-hk.com DMR is holding dance-and- crafts classes in DB North Plaza throughout July and August on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Children, aged 2.5 to 10 years, get to learn new dance moves and create artwork based on different summer-themed activities. Great packages are available to help fill children’s summer schedule with fun and creativity. Tel: 5210 7208 Email: info@dmr-hk.com DISCOVERY MONTESSORI SCHOOL www.montessori-ami.edu.hk Montessori Summer Camp (half/ full-day) is running from June 24 to August 2 in DB and Central, taking children, aged 1 to 12 years, on an exciting journey filled with creativity, exploration and new experiences. Fun and educational activities, from arts and crafts to science experiments, sports activities to nature exploration, are designed to inspire children’s imagination and spark their curiosity. Tel: 2987 1201 Email: enquiry@dms.edu.hk GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI www.guidepost.hk Guidepost Montessori’s Around the World dual-language (English and Mandarin) summer programme enables children aged 2 to 6 years to explore the history, geography, traditions and natural marvels of different continents. The week-long, half-day camps run from July 2 to 26 in DB North Plaza with the aim to develop global awareness, cultural sensitivity and an appreciation for diversity. Enjoy a 5% discount if you enrol for three or more weeks! WhatsApp: 9126 6211 Email: admissions@guidepost.hk BAYVIEW HOUSE OF CHILDREN www.bayview.hk Bayview’s Ultimate Summer Fun programme runs from July 2 to August 9 in DB North Plaza. Kids aged 3 to 6 years can enjoy various activities tailored just for them during morning or full-day sessions. The morning programme includes arts and crafts, outdoor games, music and cooking. In the afternoons, the multi-sport programme features fun games and access to Bayview’s bouncy castle, trampoline and swimming pool. Tel: 6114 2436 Email: info@bayview.hk DR BEAR EDUCATION CENTRE www.facebook.com/drbearschool Dr Bear Education Centre’s Mandarin-immersive summer camp offers children a creative, motivating and cheerful environment to work on language development. Over the span of 6 weeks, from July 2 to August 9, the DB-based camp covers different topics including summer, family, cooking, sports, Chinese culture and nature. The camp is split into two time slots, morning for ages 3.5 to 5.5 years; afternoon for ages 5.5 years and up. WhatsApp: 9685 7856 Email: drbearschool@gmail.com MANDARIN TIME SCHOOL www.mandarintimeschool.com Mandarin Time’s full immersion summer programme provides kids aged 5 to 15 years a 100% Mandarin- speaking environment, with on-campus teachers holding degrees in TCFL or related majors. Running from June 24 to August 29, there are morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions. DB kids enjoy a complimentary daily pick-up and drop-off service from DB Pier in Central. WhatsApp: 6111 0523 Email: info@mandarintimeschool.com YIFAN MANDARIN www.yifancamps.com Yifan Mandarin’s summer Mandarin-immersion programme in DB North Plaza encourages children to learn the language through fun and varied, hands-on activities. Half-day, week-long summer camps, for kids aged 3.5 to 8 years, run from July 2 to August 9. 一帆中文夏令營已在愉景灣開辦逾十五年,透 過生動有趣的活動,讓孩子沉浸式學習和練習普通話! WhatsApp: 9208 7611 Email: learn@yifanmandarin.com HONG KONG SURFING LESSON www.hongkongsurfinglesson.com Hong Kong Surfing Lesson’s one-day or three-day non-overnight surfing camps run from June 17 to August 28 at Lower Cheung Sha Beach. Children, aged 5 to 14 years, get their own surfboard to maximise their surfing time. Camps are run by professional ISA-qualified instructors, who help kids progress by making surfing fun and safe. Lessons are also available daily for beginner to intermediate surfers of all ages. WhatsApp: 6199 0904 Email: info@hongkongsurfinglesson.com JUNGLE SCHOOL www.jaimiesharpevents.com Jungle School is back, mornings from July 1 to 5 at DB North Plaza Beach. Kids, aged 4 to 11 years, embark on a journey where nature is their playground and imagination knows no bounds. Experienced instructors guide the children through thrilling activities, encouraging them to take safe risks, develop essential life skills, and create lifelong memories. Jungle School believes in the power of outdoor play to build resilience and foster a love for the natural world. WhatsApp: 9095 7250 Email: jaimiesharpevents@gmail.com TREASURE ISLAND www.treasureislandhk.com Treasure Island’s Summer Surf and Adventure camps run from June 17 to August 23 on Pui O Beach, and are bookable by the week or day. From hiking and kayaking to raft-building, youth, aged 5 to 9 years, 9 to 13 years, and 13 to 17 years, get to experience a wild range of outdoor pursuits, while developing eco- awareness and leadership skills. Specialised Surf camps are also available for kids aged 5 to 9 years, and 9 to 13 years. Tel: 5236 7016 Email: inquiries@treasureislandhk.com HK DRAGONS FC https://dragons.hk HK Dragons FC’s summer programme, for children aged 4 to 14, runs from July 2 to 12, and August 5 to 9 at DB North Plaza, Pui O and Stanley. Led by experienced coaches, the week-long camps consist of themed daily sessions (60 minutes per day for U4 to U6, 90 minutes for U7 and up). Small group training is focused on players’ individual technical ability, physical conditioning and tactical understanding. Tel: 6417 3303 Email: theoffice@dragons.hk TINY TOTS SOCCER www.tinytots.com.hk Tinytots Soccer Discovery Bay Summer programme will run on Mondays and Fridays, July and August, 3-4pm and 4-5pm for the ages of 18months to 4 years old at DB Community Hall. Tinytots is a professional sports play programme specially designed to develop children’s social skills and promote physical fitness in a structured and fun atmosphere. WhatsApp: 6417 3303 Email: theoffice@dragons.com.hk HARRY WRIGHT SWIM SCHOOL https://harrywright.com.hk/SA_DB.asp Harry Wright Swim School’s summer programme is being held at the Club Siena pool from July 2 to August 10, for kids aged 4 months to 16 years. Children can choose between the 3-day camp (Monday, Wednesday, Friday), the 5-day camp (Monday to Friday) or the daily programme (Monday to Saturday). Both club members and non-members are welcome to enrol at Club Siena or the DBRC reception. Tel: 2575 6279 Email: swimming@harrywright.com.hk FAUST www.faustworld.com Faust’s nine-week summer programme runs from June 24 to August 23, with Summer Theatre and Musical Theatre for 3- to 15-year-olds, and Creative Writing for 6- to 14-year-olds. In any given week, children can participate in all three classes focusing on performance skills, theatre knowledge and writing skills, while developing leadership and teamwork skills, individual expression and confidence. Tel: 2547 9114 Email: info@faustworld.com

Land Of The Eternal Blue Sky FLY INTO THE CAPITAL, ULAANBAATAR, a surprisingly youthful and bustling city, where nearly half of all Mongolians live. Before heading out to learn about Mongolia’s nomadic culture and experience its vast, untouched landscapes, be sure to visit Gandantegchinlen Monastery, Bogd Khan’s Winter Palace and Choijin Lama Temple. CLIMB 300 STEPS TO ZAISAN MEMORIAL for incredible views over the city and to discover a painting that depicts scenes of friendship between the people of Mongolia and Russia. The circular mural commemorates Soviet support for Mongolia’s independence in 1921, the Soviet-Mongol alliance in WW11 and the Soviet Soyuz 39, which carried the first Mongolian into space. STOP OFF AT HUSTAI NATIONAL PARK to see rare and endangered Przewalski’s horses – the last and only remaining wild horse species in the world. HNP is dedicated to establishing a sustainable population of Przewalski’s horses, along with protecting the many other endangered plant and animal species found in the 50-square-kilometre park. HONK YOUR HORN AS YOU PASS THE SHAMAN statue, a Tengriism religious site, on the way to Karakorum. You may also choose to leave offerings of sweets, money, milk, or vodka. Mongolian shamanism has been practiced at least since 4000 BC; it is an all-encompassing system of belief that includes medicine, religion, a reverence for nature and ancestor worship. GET YOUR CULTURE FIX IN KARAKORUM , the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, where Chinggis Khaan based himself before invading China in 1220. Visit the King’s Monument which contains vibrant mosaic panels depicting the Hunnu, Turkic and Mongol empires, and Erdene Zuu Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. HONOUR THE GREATEST MONGOL OF ALL at the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, an hour’s drive east of Ulaanbaatar. The 40-metre-high statue (the world’s largest equestrian statue) has Chinggis Khaan sitting astride a warhorse holding a golden whip. You can take an elevator to the top for breathtaking views across Gorkhi Terelj National Park. DRIVE WEST THROUGH ELSEN TASARKHAI – the mini-Gobi – on your way to Karakorum, the ancient capital. The trip takes a day or there’s the option to overnight in the desert with a local nomadic family, helping them roundup their animals, learning how to cook traditional (meat-heavy) Mongolian food, riding camels and sleeping in a ger.

From avoiding carbs to adding collagen to coffee, most nutrition trends are passing fads but let’s take a look at a few that are likely here to stay There are plenty of popular nutrition trends that have the experts divided. Take the carnivore diet, intermittent fasting and weight-loss drugs like Ozempic – they’ll all help you fight the flab but at what cost to your long-term health? There are some trends, however, that have the experts in agreement, since they’re all about longevity, sustainability and overall wellness. Let’s take a look. PROTEIN QUALITY When it comes to adequate protein intake, quantity of protein used to be the primary focus, but now the conversation is on quality, too. One way to think about protein quality is to consider whether it is a complete or incomplete protein. A complete protein source provides sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids that aren’t produced in the body naturally. An incomplete protein source either provides some essential amino acids but not all nine, or all nine amino acids but not in sufficient amounts to be considered complete. Most animal sources are considered complete and, with some exceptions including soy, most plant-based foods are considered incomplete proteins. High-quality protein is important for all of us, but especially for those intentionally trying to lose weight, older people who need help maintaining muscle mass and athletes. Proteins, such as whey protein and casein found in milk, eggs and meat, provide all essential amino acids and are easily digestible, making them ideal for muscle repair and growth. If you are following a plant-based diet, you can achieve a complete protein source by consuming complementary proteins throughout the day, such as rice and beans, hummus and pita, peanut butter on wholegrain bread, and quinoa with lentils. Incorporating quality protein into your diet is certainly important but it’s also important to understand that any source of protein in your diet is better than no protein at all. PLANT-BASED DIETS Plant-based diets continue to grow in popularity due to their purported health benefits and their potential to have a positive impact on the environment. Attractive to all those who prefer not to eat meat, the plant-based trend also appeals to flexitarians who eat meat and other animal products only in moderation. A recent randomised clinical trial, comparing vegan with omnivorous diets, has created quite a buzz. The study observed 22 healthy, adult, identical twin pairs. One twin consumed a vegan diet, and the other twin consumed a healthy omnivorous diet. After eight weeks, the study found the twins who consumed the vegan diet experienced decreases in LDL-cholesterol, insulin and weight, compared to the twins who consumed the omnivorous diet. While promising at first glance, there are several limitations to this study that you need to consider before adopting a plant-based diet. Importantly, there are various forms of plantbased diets ranging from a lacto-ovo-pescatarian diet (dairy, eggs and seafood are consumed) to a vegan diet (no animal products are consumed). Depending on the type of plant-based diet you follow, you may need to pay special attention to certain nutrients to meet your nutritional needs. In general, those who are limiting or excluding animal-based foods from their diet should ensure they are receiving adequate intakes of vitamin B12, iron, calcium, choline and omega-3 fatty acids. Here are a few simple ways to make your diet more “plant-forward”. Start slow: aim for one plant-based meal a week and gradually increase the frequency over time. Make swaps: for example, if you usually use ground beef in your tacos, try black beans, ground tofu or a lentil/ mushroom blend instead. Perhaps, even start by mixing half animal protein and half plant protein before making the full transition. Lastly, have fun: rather than looking at this concept as a negative or restrictive, make it enjoyable. Choose a tasty recipe in advance, and plan to make it together with a partner or friend. Experimenting with new recipes – plant-based or not – is always a great way to surprise yourself and your taste buds. Remember, adopting new diet changes should be a journey rather than an overnight change. Regardless of the type of diet you follow, diversity is key. Consuming a range of foods ensures a broad spectrum of nutrients and encourages an enjoyable and sustainable diet. SUSTAINABILITY Sustainable eating practices have the potential to positively impact the planet by promoting biodiversity, improving soil health and reducing water usage. If you want to make sustainability a focus, your first step is to adopt a plant-forward diet. Livestock farming is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, so start by swapping one animal-based meal per week with a plant-based option. Choose food products that are ethically sourced and produced, and buy local, seasonal produce whenever possible; doing so reduces the demand for long-distance transportation and supports local farmers. And lastly, minimise food waste – plan your meals ahead of time to avoid overbuying – transition to sustainable packaging and recycle. PREBIOTIC FIBRE There is a continued interest in how the gut microbiota affects various aspects of the body including the brain. The two-way communication between the gut and the brain is specifically known as the “gut-brain axis”. In simple terms, certain strains of beneficial bacteria in the gut can produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, aka the “feel-good hormones”. One way to support your gut health is by eating prebiotic fibre. This type of fibre acts as fuel for the probiotics that live in the gut and helps them thrive. Consuming a diverse range of plant-based foods, fermented products and fibre-rich ingredients can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. So consider boosting your intake of bananas, asparagus, artichokes, garlic, onions and oats. Increased interest in improving the health of the gut microbiota is more than just a passing fad. It’s a fundamental aspect of health, and understanding this concept offers promising potential for personalised nutrition and holistic wellbeing. PERSONALISED NUTRITION A growing trend in the sphere of health and nutrition is the focus on dietary patterns that support individual nutrition needs, otherwise known as personalised nutrition. While general nutrition advice, such as eating a balanced diet comprised of complex carbohydrates, quality protein and healthy fats, applies to many, each body is different and may respond to nutrition differently. For that reason, research is diving deep into various ways nutrition can impact your body on an individualised level. Hormones are one example. Hormones affect various parts of the body – metabolism, mood and growth are just a few. Emerging research is looking at the impact nutrition has on influencing your hormones. For instance, new data suggests that following both a Mediterranean diet and a vegetarian diet result in improved hormone levels related to energy. Another example of personalised nutrition is blood sugar management. This approach isn’t only relevant for individuals living with diabetes: it has gained traction among a broader audience for its perceived benefits in weight loss, energy regulation and overall health. There are easy steps to follow to bring more attention to this concept. Firstly, pair your carbohydrates with fat and protein to help reduce your body’s glucose response. Secondly, choose carbohydrates with fibre in them such as steel-cut oats or millet. (Fibre helps to reduce the rate at which carbohydrates are digested and absorbed, and helps to prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar.) Third, limit foods with excessive quantities of added sugars. While each of these tips is informed by science, it is important to consult with your doctor before changing your diet as each person’s body responds differently to dietary changes.

Hannah Tait of Discovery Bay International School tells Susannah Wood why early years education is crucial to our children’s future development and success It’s a commonly known fact, as supported by extensive studies and research, that a child’s brain develops more in the first five years of life than at any other time. Every interaction a young child has shapes their neurological development, laying the foundations for their future learning journey. In many countries, including Hong Kong, formal education isn’t mandatory until children reach primary school age (six years old in Hong Kong), although many parents choose to enrol their children much earlier. According to Hannah Tait, Head of EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) and Primary at Discovery Bay International School (DBIS), this is a smart move. “It’s a commonly held misconception that “real learning” only starts for children when they are aged five and entering primary school,” says Hannah. “In actual fact, children’s learning, growth and development starts at conception and continues in complex, often non-linear ways through early childhood and beyond. “Extensive changes and development happen in early childhood, and the experiences children have between birth and five years strongly influence their future success. Just like buildings need strong foundations in order to be secure, so do our children.” PROVEN BENEFITS Hannah’s assertions are backed up by recent research by OFSTED (the UK’s Office for Standards in Education). The 2023 study, titled the Best start in life, examined the factors that contribute to a high-quality early education, as well as the development of young children’s knowledge and skills. The study found that children who attended pre-school provision went on to attain higher GCSE scores than those who did not. Considering GCSEs are typically taken at age 16, the long-term benefits start to become clear. Of course, the success of any education programme is dependent on the quality of the provision, and this is where formal learning in a school setting offers significant benefits. “School settings ensure that a rigorous, appropriate curriculum underpins the experiences the children have,” says Hannah. “Well-designed early years environments provide access to a range of relevant resources, tailor made to support learning and development between three and five years old. At DBIS, we view our environment as the third teacher; as such, it is planned to ensure learning is possible throughout all aspects of the children’s day. “We are lucky at DBIS to have extensive outdoor facilities, which we make full use of. The outdoor environment offers children unique possibilities, benefits health and wellbeing, and helps children make sense of the world around them. We often notice that children will demonstrate their learning in ways that are not possible or evident indoors. Outdoor learning in a purposefully designed setting also allows children to engage with risk in a secure manner, supporting them with self-regulation and physical development, and ensuring they gain an understanding of their bodies’ own capabilities and limits, something which will keep them safe as they grow older.” EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELD Hannah stresses that supporting children to engage with risk is something that should only be led by qualified professionals. “Early years education in schools is provided by highly qualified teachers who have undertaken extensive undergraduate and postgraduate study in early childhood education,” she explains. “This includes extensive teaching practice and research linked to child development. It is these qualifications that support practitioners in planning outstanding environments to support children’s learning and discovery. “Teachers will effectively engage with a cycle of observation, assessment and planning to ensure all aspects of the day are purposeful and tailored to each child’s stage of development. At DBIS, we follow a “stage-not-age” approach, identifying each child’s strengths and considering how we support development from individual starting points. This ensures we can nurture dispositions such as resilience, problem solving, confidence and creativity, which are crucially important not only to support learning but also to enable children to respond effectively to their unfolding futures.” EFFECTIVE CURRICULA School settings also enable strong academics from an early age, albeit largely through playbased learning. “We follow the EYFS curriculum from England,” says Hannah, “a precursor to Key Stage 1. It is specifically designed for children to begin exploring the building blocks of the National Curriculum subjects they will go on to study in primary and secondary. It includes pre- and early phonics, supporting children in navigating the complexities of learning to read and write, and nurturing communication and language skills.” Specialist lessons are also usually available in formal school environments, with children benefitting from access to expert practitioners in areas such as learning technologies, physical education, music and languages (DBIS, like many schools in Hong Kong, offers Mandarin lessons from age three), along with high-quality resources to support learning. CHOOSING A SCHOOL What advice does Hannah have for parents considering Hong Kong early years education options for their child? “First and foremost, I would advise parents to not underestimate the importance of quality early childhood education and to ensure they enrol their child early rather than wait until the compulsory age for starting school. As the research from OFSTED identifies, the education and care children receive in the early years affects not only future educational attainment but also future health and happiness. “Look for a setting that aligns with your personal values, recognises the importance of working in partnership with families, prioritises the holistic development of children and has a robust curriculum that is delivered by suitably qualified and skilled practitioners. Choosing a setting that is underpinned with a recognised curriculum and delivered by skilled adults will ensure your child's learning and development is supported by those who have the necessary understanding of child development and can therefore tailor your child's learning experience to ensure optimal progress and firm foundations are established for lifelong learning. “All children are infinitely capable, creative and full of potential – our job as adults is to support and nurture those qualities and give our children the best possible start in life.”

How to choose a pest control company you can rely on, and questions to ask When you have a problem with pests, what starts off as a manageable situation can very quickly become uncontrollable. In that case, the best thing to do is call a professional pest control company. But how can you be sure they’ll do a good job? When doing your research, here are some factors to consider. 1. Exercise due diligence. Finding a pest control company you can trust involves a little legwork on your behalf. Talk to friends who have recently brought in a team of exterminators and ask them for recommendations. You can also look to the testimonials on company websites to get feedback from former customers. Questions about experience can be answered by the company itself, such as whether newly hired technicians train with more experienced employees, or how much experience the business has with dealing with your particular pest control problem. You need to have faith in the company that will be cleansing your home, so it’s important to monitor the staffs’ responsiveness and efficiency from the get-go. How was the initial call? You are looking for a team that is professional, polite and well-organised. 2. Check the fine print . Since different pesticides have varying degrees of toxicity, and some can be extremely dangerous in untrained hands, it’s important to make sure the firm you employ is fully licensed. Another good tip: ask whether the company’s employees are bonded, which means that the company will reimburse you for any loss or damage caused by an employee. 3. Get written estimates. Most pest control business will provide a free estimate in writing for the treatment plan they propose, and a detailed list of costs. Every estimate should include the following information: extent of the problem, pesticide chosen, method of dispersal and an explanation of its active ingredient, including potential adverse effects. It’s advisable to get more than one estimate from a couple of different companies, so you can compare services and costs. Be sure to carefully read through each estimate. Some firms will quote you for additional services you don’t need, like adding in termite extermination when you’re looking at an ant infestation. 4. Put safety first. You should always attempt to minimise your family and pets’ exposure to harmful chemicals. Pests are a nuisance, but the method of prevention can have unforeseen consequences if the chosen pesticides are used excessively or incorrectly. With that in mind, good questions to ask include: Are the chemicals selected the least toxic options available? Are they eco-friendly? Are there any special preparations you need to make before the treatment? Are there preventive measures you can follow to limit future recurrence of the problem? 5. Opt for repeat treatments. All pest control companies offer the option of a one-time service visit but it’s important to understand that extermination works best with frequent control – the more time passes between treatments, the harder it becomes to get the job done. Repeat treatments are necessary when the pest problem is a constant one, and preventive methods haven’t solved the issue. Bed bugs, cockroaches, spiders, ticks, rodents, fleas, termites and ants find your home an attractive source of food and shelter: these recurring pests are very hard to eradicate and usually require repeat treatments. Know that first visits are usually more expensive, and subsequent maintenance visits – monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly – are cheaper.

Marcella King has made it her mission to support mothers (and fathers) in DB and beyond. Elizabeth Kerr reports "When you’re a new parent, honestly you don’t even notice anyone else.” That’s paediatric nurse, The Baby Hub HK founder and Pathfinders volunteer Marcella King’s painfully honest theory about why those of us without children run the risk of getting hit by an oncoming minibus when compelled to share the pavement with new parents and their all-terrain prams. Marcella, to her credit, takes the cranky question in stride, probably because as a paediatric nurse with over 20 years under her belt – and as a mother of two herself – she’s seen and heard it all before. Marcella is seated at a table in Café 8, a social enterprise coffee shop near Star Ferry on the Central side, and the choice of venue is in line with her compassionate nature. A long, meandering chat covers a lot of ground: the UK’s possible misstep in leaving the EU; the bizarre reality of gun culture; the perfect weather location (perhaps San Diego); embracing grey hair; how boring wine from Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay can be; travel writer Bill Bryson; the early agonies of running her own business; and the glory of M&S Food Halls. “It’s a luxury I can’t do without. What would I do without their potatoes?” she quips. THE ROAD TO DB Born in Ireland, in County Kildare, Marcella took the long road to Hong Kong. After training at King’s College in London and a stint at Royal Brompton Hospital as a registered paediatric respiratory nurse specialist, she and her teacher and movie-nerd husband Matt (he was an extra in all three Lord of the Rings films) took the plunge in 2014 – moving straight to Discovery Bay. The pair met in London. Marcella was at Brompton and Matt, a Kiwi, was teaching; they hit it off after meeting at dance class. Some awkward shuffling led to casual chatter; dating led to marriage. “It was just a brilliant, brilliant time: and then kids came along and you know, things just changed,” Marcella recalls. “We asked ourselves if we really wanted to live in London long term. I didn’t want to go back to Ireland. Matt didn’t want to go back to New Zealand.” The answer was Hong Kong. A visit with a South African friend living in DB put them on that path about a year later when Marcella’s son Charlie, now 11, was a baby and daughter Abby, now 14, was a toddler. “DB was definitely the right thing,” she says. “We’re both really into the outdoors, we love the water and the trees. It’s a special place.” Matt accepted a rare ESF teaching position and Marcella dropped out of nursing – for a bit. “We kind of knew that if we came here, it was just going to be a great move for us and our family,” says Marcella. “I didn’t know what I was going to do work wise. We just took a leap of faith.” A LEAP OF FAITH Initially, work turned out to be a challenge. Though Marcella is registered in both the UK and Australia, getting accredited by the Nursing Council of Hong Kong wound up taking four stressful years. There was a fidgety practical exam and a written exam that, should you fail, had a year-long gap between sessions. “My candidate number was 0001 because nobody else was in paediatric nursing; I think in seven or eight years no one sat the exam. I studied really hard; I went right back to being in nursing college. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life,” she says. “When I think about my degree and my training, getting registered with the Hong Kong nursing council was such a reward. And my kids were so proud of me – because they saw me fail and they knew how hard it was to go back the third time. So that was a big ol’ lesson.” Marcella’s third registration led to working at Central Health Family Practice in DB for nine years and finally The Baby Hub HK (thebabyhubhk.com), which offers “expert support on your parenting journey.” That “support” used to mean a quick call to mother, but as Marcella learnt while running Central Health’s weekly Baby Clinic (and particularly from the pandemic), it’s not always that easy in the age of globalisation. “Not everyone’s mothers or family are available to them and actually, some people make a conscious decision not to do things the way that their mothers or fathers did,” she argues. “They want to break away, but can’t rely on Google because you get some freaky facts. Google doesn’t say ‘It depends,’ which it often does. Motherhood isn’t a blank canvas where one size fits all.” ALL THING’S BABY In the year s leading up to 2023, Marcella pinpointed a real need for a home-visiting service that provided clear, concise, medically-sound answers to parent’s questions, both simple and complex. Hence, The Baby Hub HK. In addition to regular health checkups, a home visit typically includes developmental assessment, postnatal support and advice on bonding with your child. Marcella can offer hands-on help with everything from feeding to sleep routines; asthma and allergies are a specialty (registered respiratory specialist nurse, remember). Home safety assessments, helper training and group workshops are also provided. The Baby Hub HK’s first year has been one defined by word-of-mouth growth with zero advertising, and Marcella appreciates the validation. Running into former clients who are filled with new confidence is icing on the cake. “It’s really lovely,” she says. “I get a massive kick out of it.” The time was right for the business, and it gives Marcella more flexibility for her own family – room to enjoy Matt’s long teacher’s holidays (Abby is really into ancient architecture so Greece and Sicily are beckoning). But she still makes time for the Central Health Baby Clinic and Pathfinders (www.pathfinders.org.hk), the NOG that works with migrant mothers during and after their pregnancy. Marcella’s role includes supporting mothers after delivery and providing advice on feeding, vaccinations, growth and weight monitoring, as well as all-around emotional support. “These mothers at Pathfinders don’t have access to hospitals. They’re overstayers or refugees and they’re not allowed to go to the hospital for checkups or to get their baby vaccines. So it’s a different ‘fill my bucket,’ when I’m talking to someone there about their new baby’s blocked eye, or they’re worried about the tummy button,” Marcella finishes. “If they didn’t see me, they wouldn’t do blush.” But do they share the pavement?

From its new base in DB North, Kreatell SuperAsia is expanding Alan Walker’s presence in Asia Norwegian electronic music sensation Alan Walker, together with his management team at Kreatell International, has set up a new operational base in Discovery Bay, launching Kreatell SuperAsia (KSA). The move sees the 26-year-old Walker extending his influence into 12 crucial Asian markets, all managed from new premises at DB North Plaza. KSA, led by Gunnar Greve, Dan Ottesen and Sophia Yao, signifies a strategic pivot towards the Asian market, with the team thrilled to establish a global headquarters in DB. Greve, Walker's manager, brings a wealth of experience from his multifaceted roles in the Scandinavian music scene and as a judge on Norwegian Idol. Yao, now the managing director for Kreatell in Asia, taking responsibility for the business growth in music recording, live performance, commercial partnerships, artist branding and merchandise, has been instrumental in building Walker's presence in the region during her tenure at Sony Music Asia. “We prioritise creativity in our work environment, seeking a space that fosters inspiration and tranquillity,” Yao says of the decision to base KSA in DB. “Rather than opting for a bustling cityscape, we prefer locations immersed in nature. DB stands out to us for its relaxed atmosphere and unique positioning near AsiaWorld-Expo, where Alan held two arena shows last year, each wowing 8,000 fans. “With its family-friendly vibe and proximity to Disneyland, we appreciate the privacy DB offers, allowing us to host artists, songwriters and their families for creative sessions,” Yao adds. “Staying at the Auberge, adjacent to our office, further enhances this ideal setting for us.” SOLID TRACK RECORD Walker is best known for his breakout hit Faded, which has achieved over 1.8 billion Spotify streams and a massive 3.5 billion views on YouTube. Being the 19th most-watched music video on YouTube, the single brought him a BRIT awards nomination for Song of the Year, as well as a Norwegian Grammy win in the same category. Today, Walker’s global influence stretches far and wide, with 150 million followers across various social platforms, over 35.7 billion YouTube views and more than 85 billion streams across audio and video platforms. As one of Spotify's Top 100 most streamed artists, with the 11th biggest artist channel on YouTube, Walker's collaborations with stars like Ava Max, Hans Zimmer, Noah Cyrus, Sia, Bruno Mars and Coldplay highlight his significant impact on the music industry. Just 16 years old when Faded became a massive Europe-wide hit, Walker has released a string of successful singles like Alone and Darkside; his chart-topping debut album Different World arrived in late 2018, amassing over 3,2 billion streams on Spotify. Known for his thumping beats and hypnotic sounds, Walker has performed at 650 headlining shows and festivals globally, including Coachella and Tomorrowland. FORWARD-LOOKING STRATEGY KSA’s choice to establish a foothold in Hong Kong is born from the explosive growth and dynamic nature of the Asian market. “Significant streaming and revenue growth from countries like China, Indonesia and India have marked Asia as a critical region for Walker's continued success,” Yao says. "The enthusiasm and support from Asian fans has been pivotal to our global achievements," she adds, underlining the phenomenal success of Walker's WalkerWorld tour in China. The tour, spanning six cities, saw all 40,000 tickets sold out within just two weeks, a testament to Walker's immense popularity and the efficient promotional strategies employed by his team. This recordsetting pace established Walker as the fastest selling international artist in the Asian market. Looking ahead, KSA's ambitious plans include an extensive tour across Asia, with a 10-city arena tour in both China and India. This move is poised to be a groundbreaking endeavour, setting new benchmarks for international tours in these countries. Additionally, solo arena shows are planned across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Korea and Japan, signalling a major milestone for global artists in the region. KSA’s vision extends beyond music streaming. The team is actively engaging with commercial brands, gaming companies, governments and local artists to forge innovative collaborations and special projects. With a strategic base in Hong Kong, KSA is perfectly positioned to foster close ties with partners and stakeholders throughout Asia, enhancing communication and collaboration across the board. Walker's commitment to honouring local cultures is evidenced by his music video Sing Me to Sleep, a billion-streamed song featuring Hong Kong landmarks. It has now reached 713 million streams on YouTube alone, and continues to inspire global musicians. With KSA, Walker is set to deepen his engagement with Asian audiences, promising a vibrant mix of music, culture and innovation. “The establishment of KSA marks a significant chapter in Walker's journey, reflecting not just on his evolution as a global music icon but also on the broader aspirations of the music industry in engaging with the Asian market,” Yao concludes. “We are poised to captivate more fans across Asia, driven by a legacy of remarkable performances and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Keep your eyes peeled! These spud-tacular recipes aren’t just sides, they’re the main event Classic Potato Salad Serves 6 800g potatoes, peeled 2tsp wholegrain mustard 2tbsp white wine vinegar 4tbsp olive oil 1 shallot, finely chopped 3tbsp mayonnaise 2tbsp sour cream 1tbsp horseradish sauce ¼ lemon, juice only 2 spring onions, finely sliced Handful of fried onions Cook the potatoes for around 10 minutes until tender. Meanwhile, whisk the mustard, vinegar, olive oil and shallots together with a good pinch of salt and a grind of pepper. When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized chunks, then toss them in the mustard dressing. Leave to cool completely. Mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish and lemon juice together. When the potatoes are cool, toss them through the mayonnaise mixture along with the spring onions. Tip into a dish and scatter with the crispy onions just before serving. Rosti Potatoes Serves 2 400g potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated 1 medium egg, beaten 1tsp plain flour ¼tsp baking powder ½ small onion, finely chopped 6 sage leaves 3tbsp vegetable oil Squeeze any excess water out of the grated potatoes, then tip into a bowl and mix well with the egg, flour, baking powder, onion and 2 sage leaves, finely chopped. Season well. Heat 2tbsp oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat, and spoon in the mixture to make 4 rostis, flattening them down with the back of a spoon into disc shapes. Cook for 5 minutes each side until golden brown and crisp, then drain on kitchen paper. Next, cook the remaining 4 sage leaves in the remaining oil over a medium heat. Cook for 20 seconds until crisp but still green. Drain on kitchen paper and use to garnish each rösti. Serve hot with sour cream, or mayonnaise.

FLORENCE IS WHERE THE ITALIAN RENAISSANCE kicked off, and it’s packed with worldcelebrated art, architecture and monuments. Time spent in its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, never fails to leave you in awe. Visit museums, palazzos, piazzas and cathedrals, and cross the river Arno at Ponte Vecchio for breathtaking views. ESTABLISHED BY THE MEDICI FAMILY at the end of the 16th century, Galleria Degli Uffizi is a dream destination for art lovers, displaying five centuries worth of paintings. Here you’ll find Mediciowned masterpieces including Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Raphael’s Madonna of the Goldfinch and Titian’s Venus of Urbino. PICTURE-PERFECT DUOMO DI FORZI , formally the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is the city’s most iconic landmark, known for its pink, white and green marble facade. The cathedral’s vast, red-tiled dome stretches 89 metres into the sky and dominates the cityscape. Climb to the top to catch glorious views of the Tuscan countryside. MICHELANGELO WAS BORN in Florence in 1475, and you find the sculptor- painterarchitect’s creations all over the city. Head to Galleria dell’Accademia to see David, Michelangelo’s most famous sculpture: a symbol of independence, strength and youthful beauty. (The Davids in Piazza della Signoria and Piazzale Michelangelo are replicas.) THE BEST FLORENTINE WALKING TOURS include regular stop-offs at cafés, gelato shops and ristorantes. In addition to freshly made pizza and pasta, the city is known for its delicious meats and truffle dishes. Osteria I Buongustai is celebrated for its Tuscan home cooking, as is 50-year-old, family-owned trattoria Le Mossacce. FLORENCE’S COLOURFUL FESTIVALS are as legendary as they are numerous. The grand parade that is Il Carnevale floods the city in February and stars an enormous dragon; Scoppio del Carro, held on Easter Sunday, is another must-see, century-old celebration, where a cart filled with fireworks is pulled by oxen through the streets. IN SANTA CROCE WITH NO BAEDEKER : a must-see for fans of A Room with a View, Basilica di Santa Croce has a magnificent neo-Gothic facade in varying shades of coloured marble. Here you find the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Ghiberti, and glorious frescoes by Giotto – Enrico Pazzi’s Statue of Dante Alighier stands right outside.

Regular walking has definite health benefits and it can also provide a better workout than running. Time then to join all the other DBers hiking the Lantau trails I’ve been wearing a pedometer (step counter) for seven months now, and I genuinely believe that it has helped motivate me to get fit and lose weight. A total of 10,000 steps per day, equivalent to 8 kilometres, is recommended as the benchmark for an active lifestyle, and I find this pretty easy to achieve. Five days a week I walk to and from the ferry as part of my daily commute, and I make a point of getting out in my lunch hour and walking around for 30 minutes or so. Most days I reach my goal of 10,000 steps even if I have to pace a little around my flat in the evenings, or wonder down to the plaza. At the weekends, to really compete with myself, and up my step count, I’ve taken to walking the Lantau trails. AT HOME ON THE TRAILS While you wouldn’t catch me racing round a track, and I’m no gym bunny, walking appeals because it doesn’t really feel like exercise. There are times when I’ll break a sweat and even feel the burn, but for the most part I’m in a tranquil headspace, focused on the people around me – or the glorious views. Where you walk certainly makes a difference. Switch from pavements to grass and you’ll burn 50% more calories; walking uphill, on sand or rough trail burns twice as many calories as road walking. Importantly too, anyone of any fitness level can hike, though new hikers need to be realistic and choose trails that are in keeping with their physical limits. Newbies should start with short, easy hikes and ensure they pace themselves, settling into a natural stride and rhythm. There are numerous reasons to get into trail hiking: it can certainly help you tone and lose weight but it also benefits the mind and soul. It releases stress, helps reduce insomnia and builds a positive sense of achievement as you conquer longer and more difficult trails. Getting out into nature is proven to benefit health, promoting healing and alleviating stress, and on the trails, you also get to learn something… about the history of a particular trail and the villages and places you pass through. Hiking also contributes to an overall feeling of wellness. It provides an escape from the daily routine – a self-nourishing, meditative timeout if you do it alone, and a productive space in which to truly get to know one another if you do it with friends. PRESCRIPTION TO WALK Any physical activity boosts your overall health but walking, in particular, comes with a host of benefits. Here are five that may surprise you. Harvard researchers looked at 32 obesitypromoting genes in over 12,000 people to determine how much these genes actually contribute to body weight. Among the study participants who walked briskly for about an hour a day, the effects of those genes were cut in half. Walking therefore counteracts the effects of weight-promoting genes. A pair of studies from the University of Exeter found that a 15-minute walk can curb cravings for chocolate and even reduce the amount of chocolate you eat in stressful situations. And the latest research confirms that walking can reduce cravings and intake of a variety of sugary snacks. Know too that a short walk after eating can nudge your blood sugar into a healthy range. Researchers already know that any kind of physical activity blunts the risk of breast cancer. But an American Cancer Society study that zeroed in on walking found that women who walked seven or more hours a week had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week. And walking provided this protection even for the women with breast-cancer risk factors, such as being overweight or using supplemental hormones. Several studies have found that walking reduces arthritis-related pain, and that walking 8 to 5 kilometres a week can even prevent arthritis from forming in the first place. Walking protects the joints – especially the knees and hips, which are most susceptible to osteoarthritis – by lubricating them and strengthening the muscles that support them. A study of over 1,000 men and women found that those who walked for at least 20 minutes a day, at least five days a week, had 43% fewer sick days than those who exercised once a week or less. And if they did get sick, it was for a shorter duration, and their symptoms were milder. Walking boosts immune function, meaning it can help protect you during cold and flu season. FEEL THE BURN Back to walking your way to fitness: mile for mile, running and walking burn the same amount of calories (around 100), but the real benefit of walking is that it burns more fat than running. Even after two weeks of daily, two-minute walks, you should start to see big changes in your shape. More good news: walking trims the hips, thighs and bottom better and quicker than running. The walking movement lengthens and strengthens muscles in the lower body, and helps you lose weight in all the right places. Walkers are toned rather than sinewy, and ladies you won’t lose weight around the bust. With the right technique, walking can also give the abdominal muscles a good workout. Imagine you have a glass of water on each hip, so you don’t swing them. This naturally engages and strengthens the core muscles. The aim is to walk steadily at a pace that leaves you a little breathless when talking. If you can’t maintain a brisk pace for your entire workout, consider walking intervals where you have hard effort mixed with recovery periods. For example, warm up at a 3kmph pace. Then for the rest of your walk, alternate a minute at a pace of 6kmph with one or two minutes at 3kmph. More time on your feet will increase your calorie burn. Like I said, a total of 10,000 steps per day, equivalent to 8 kilometres, is recommended. Wearing a backpack can also turn up your burn. For example, a 155-pound person burns approximately 267 calories walking at a moderate (5.5kmph) pace on a flat surface for one hour. That same person could burn up to 439 calories an hour walking a more mountainous trail while wearing a weighted backpack. As for technique, most of us don’t walk as efficiently or as safely as we could. Make sure that, as each foot lands, you transfer weight down the outside of the sole to the ball. Don’t lift the back foot until the big toe of the front foot has landed. Keep the leg muscles relaxed, avoid locking the knees, and make sure your arms are bent at 90º, swinging them close to the body. Shoulders should be loose, hands gently cupped and eyes looking straight ahead – unless of course you get distracted by the view.